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About Testimonial EN

“Our hockey club and foundation stand amongst the best in the National Hockey League teams in terms of amount of effort, priority and commitment we place towards our community and its many charitable causes.”

What We Do Testimonial EN

“Giving children and youth an opportunity to learn and grow is something that we’re extremely proud of. Breaking down the barriers and fostering important life skills are the core pieces of all our community investments.”

News Testimonial EN

“Winning on the ice is fun, but how players use their status in the community is a gift. Being a member of the Ottawa Senators Hockey Club means giving back to our community and helping those who need it most,” said Pierre Dorion, General Manager, Ottawa Senators Hockey Club”

Events Testimonial EN

“Playing team sports recreationally or otherwise is critically important to kids. Not only does it provide them with physical activity and the chance to interact with their peers, it teaches them invaluable life lessons about collective effort, shared achievement and the importance of giving back to community.”

On Thursday March 2, the Ottawa Senators Foundation are hosting their annual telethon. A show dedicated to sharing stories about people and programs making a difference in our community.

Meet the Earl Jones.

For a child, there is nothing quite like stepping onto the ice for the first time. But for some children, those first few strides might be a little more difficult. Unfortunately, many kids are limited by financial strain, physical challenges or social barriers.

That’s why the Ottawa Senators Foundation is committed to breaking down these barriers in the Ottawa area. This is the inspiration for the SENS RINK program.

To date, the Foundation has built nine SENS RINKs in Ottawa, Gatineau and Smith’s Falls; almost halfway to its goal of 20. But the facilities themselves are just part of the initiative. The program supports minor hockey leagues, learn-to-play programs, events and tournaments, benefiting more than 10,000 kids in the Ottawa area.

Alexander Park is one of the areas that has benefited from the SENS RINK so far. Earl Jones works closely with the community, and sees the effect of the facility first-hand.

“This SENS RINK is more than just an arena, it will become a place for members of the community to come together and share their unique cultural backgrounds,” said Mr. Jones. “Children and their families will create lasting memories here. The SENS RINK will be a game-changer for this community.”

In addition to providing a place for kids to skate, play and learn more about hockey, the Foundation also partnered with Canadian Tire in creating the I Love to Skate program. So far, the program has provided more than 500 kids with new skates, helmets and skating lessons at SENS RINKS.

Many of the kids who benefit from the SENS RINKs and I Love to Skate programs may not have gotten the exposure to hockey or skating otherwise. Whether because of financial, geographical or social barriers, so many children experience limitations in learning to skate. These programs provide them with the opportunity to learn new skills, which will open many doors down the road.

Being a part of a team sport provides kids with the physical, social and mental strength to set them up for success later in life. The feeling of belonging is something we all strive for, regardless of age. These kids will grow up knowing they have a place in a group or on a team; it’s hard to put a price on that.

Tune in to the Ottawa Senators Foundation Telethon on Thursday, March 2 beginning at 6:30 p.m. prior to the Senators game vs the Colorado Avalanche on TSN 5.